Lip blush is a semi-permanent makeup procedure to enhance the natural colour and shape of your lips. Also known as a lipstick tattoo, it’s a form of cosmetic tattoo that gives a natural, long-lasting colour. While the results are amazing, the healing process is key to getting the best results. Healing takes about 7-10 days, but with proper care, you can speed up the process and avoid complications.
Follow Your Technician’s Aftercare
Your technician will give you specific aftercare instructions tailored to your skin type and procedure. These aftercare instructions are to prevent infections and set the pigment. Make sure to:
- Don’t touch your lips with unwashed hands.
- Apply the recommended healing ointment or aftercare cream as directed.
- Keep your lips clean with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or damp cotton pad.
Keep Your Lips Moist
Dry lips can delay the healing process and cause flaking or scabbing. Use a healing balm or aftercare balm, like Aquaphor, to keep your lips moist. Avoid products with fragrances or harsh chemicals, as they can irritate the area. Keeping your lips moist will help with faster healing and pigment retention. Don’t let your lips get too wet or too dry during this stage.
Don’t Pick or Scratch
As your lips heal, you may see some peeling, flaky skin or scabbing. Don’t pick at the scabs, as this can remove pigment and cause uneven healing. Let the scabs fall off naturally to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of patchy colour.
Protect Your Lips from the Sun
UV rays can fade the pigment and slow down the healing process. Avoid direct sun exposure and apply a lip balm with SPF when your technician says it’s safe to do so. Excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of infection and affect the healing of your lip blush. Use a clean tissue to blot your lips if they feel wet.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Healing happens from the inside out. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated, and eat foods rich in vitamins A and C that support skin repair. Avoid spicy food, salty food or acidic food that can irritate your lips during the initial healing stage. Consider adding foods rich in antioxidants to support healing.
Don’t Over Exert and Don’t Get Too Hot
Sweating can introduce bacteria to the healing area and cause irritation. For the first few days post-procedure, avoid activities that cause excessive sweating, such as intense exercise or steam and high heat. This will prevent additional irritation and keep your lips smooth.
Use a Cold Compress if Needed
If you have swelling, redness, or discomfort, apply a clean, damp cotton pad or cold compress. Be gentle, and don’t introduce any bacteria or abrasive ingredients. An ice pack wrapped in a clean paper towel is also good.
Be Patient and Monitor Your Progress
Healing takes time. We know you want instant results, but rushing the process can cause uneven healing or excess pigment loss. If you see signs of infection like redness, swelling or pus, contact your technician or a doctor. Using an antiviral medication can also prevent cold sores from forming, especially if you get them.
Book a Touch-Up
A touch-up is necessary to refine the colour and shape of your lips after the initial healing process. During this session, your cosmetic tattoo artist can address any patchy colour or uneven healing. Touch-ups are part of the aftercare routine and will get you to your dream colour.
Extra Tips for Faster Healing
To speed up the healing of your lip blush:
- Avoid alcohol based products, abrasive products, nicotine products.
- Gently blot lymphatic fluids with soft tissue.
- Avoid blood thinners as they can cause bruising.
- Follow your aftercare instructions to minimize the risk of infection and get the best colour.
Lip Blush Healing Stages
Lip blush healing stages are predictable but take time. Here’s what to expect:
Day 1-2: Immediate Post-Procedure
Your lips will be darker and swollen after the procedure. This is normal and part of the healing process. The colour will fade a lot as the pigment settles. Use a gentle healing ointment or balm as recommended.
Day 3-5: Peeling and Flaking
Peeling and flaky skin will appear as your lips heal. This is the body’s way of shedding the outer layer. Don’t pick at the skin to prevent uneven healing or pigment loss.
Day 6-10: Colour Lightening
Your lips will start to show their true colour as they heal. The initial dark tone will fade to your natural lip colour. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer or balm.
Week 2-4: Colour Stabilization
The pigment will settle and stabilise during this time. Any uneven healing or patchy colour will even out.
Week 4-6: Touch Up
A touch-up is usually scheduled during this time. The touch-up session allows your “cosmetic tattoo” artist to refine the colour and get your lips to the desired shape and tone.
FAQ
How long does it take to heal fully?
7-10 days to initial healing, 4-6 weeks for full colour to settle.
Can I wear lipstick during healing?
No, avoid all makeup, lip gloss and products on your lips until healing is complete to prevent irritation and infection.
Why do my lips look darker?
Lips will look darker immediately after the procedure. The colour will lighten as the skin heals and pigment settles, and your dream colour will appear.
Will my lips peel or scab?
Yes, peeling and scabbing is part of the healing process. Don’t pick at your lips to ensure even healing and pigment retention. Uneven healing can lead to a patchy colour that may need a touch-up appointment.
What if I think I have an infection?
If you experience redness, swelling, pain, or discharge, contact your technician or a doctor for advice and treatment. Take antiviral if prescribed to prevent cold sores.